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North Conway has long been attractive to tourists thanks to the beautiful White Mountains. Since settlers first came to the area in the 1700s, the local natural wonders continue to draw more and more people to the area, whether for a visit or a lifetime. The White Mountain School of painting, a subset of the more famous Hudson River School, initially attracted many artists to the area. Their works served to further popularize North Conway and the other villages in the Mount Washington region throughout the early 1800s.

In addition to artists, North Conway attracted equal numbers of rock climbers and mountaineers eager to conquer the White Mountain’s steep peaks. Explorers as early as 1642 have tackled the local crags and trails. Throughout the late 1800s rail traffic increased, bringing even more people in to appreciate everything the White Mountains have to offer. Trains were key to the birth of a booming ski industry in the area, with Cranmore Mountain opening a ski school in the 1930s . This heritage can still be enjoyed at places of interest like the North Conway Depot Railroad Museum, the Mount Washington Cog Railway, and Conway Scenic Railway.

The arrival of the automobile only further expanded North Conway tourism. New businesses joined the community throughout the booming post-war years. Storyland opened in 1953 and in the 1980s the Settler’s Green outlet mall opened and attracted a variety of new businesses to the area. The Green Granite opened around the same time, conveniently located nearby. In 1995 the popular Polar Express event began, wowing families every holiday season since. With such a long history as a destination of adventure, beauty, and fun, it’s no wonder that North Conway continues to wow both long-term fans and new visitors each year. The Green Granite is proud to be a part of this unique community, and to be part of a travel tradition that continues for generations.

North Conway has a great reputation as a shopping destination thanks to the Settler’s Green Outlet Mall, featuring such great brands as American Eagle, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Eddie Bower, Gap Outlet, JCrew, Timberland, Talbots, and Wedgewood. With deep discounts and regular sales and events, anyone in the mood for a shopping getaway can safely bet on Settler’s Green. However, there are plenty of other places to shop besides the outlets to complete North Conway’s reputation as the perfect place to indulge in a little retail therapy.

Freedom Village Store is a unique shop and community hub that features locally made goods and regular events that highlight the creative community in and around Freedom, NH, a 30 minute drive from the Green Granite near White Lake State Park.

North County Fair Jewelers is a wonderful place to find unique, hand-crafted jewelry as well as diamonds, gemstones, fine jewelry, and estate sale pieces. With such a wide selection and the distinction of being a locally-owned business serving the Mount Washington Valley for over 40 years, this is a wonderful place to find a fun souvenir or special gift.

The HandCrafter’s Barn is a delightful place to browse and buy. It describes itself as “a year round craft show, with over 150 juried artisans and crafters” featuring “photography, jewelry, pottery, quilts, crafts, home decor, furniture, tole painting, fiber art, and miniatures” among many other items. You’re guaranteed to find unique items like nowhere else, all supporting true New Hampshire artists.

The Funky Bubble is a local bath and body shop featuring quality and all-natural products by Upper Canada, Ahava, Hydra and more. It’s a fantastic shop to try if you are looking to spoil yourself or someone special!

Valley Jewelers have over 20 years of experience in hand made jewelry and repair, and feature a great selection of gold, sterling, platinum, as well as precious and semi-precious stones. Longtime locals, the Valley Jewelers team are a great part of the Conway community.

These are just a few of the great boutiques and shopping opportunities in North Conway. Next time you're in the area, do a little exploring and you're sure to find some very special local treasures.